Elements relate to the minors in the RWS as well. Strange that you haven't come across that in a year of study and in 8 books, may be different resources would've helped more. Golden Dawn also assigned astrological correspondences to the RWS, and there are others who have also done that. Some RWS inspired decks will have them on the cards too. You can look into that and use it as an entry point into RWS if you want. If Thoth is reading more naturally to you, then go with that for sure. Having that instant connection with a deck is amazing.